Benefits backlash

DEVELOPERS are becoming increasingly opposed to a planned way of getting public benefits from major developments, a conference organised by Godmanchester surveyors and town planners heard. More than 100 delegates were at the fifth annual planning conferen

DEVELOPERS are becoming increasingly opposed to a planned way of getting public benefits from major developments, a conference organised by Godmanchester surveyors and town planners heard.

More than 100 delegates were at the fifth annual planning conference organised by John Martin & Associates and Peterborough-based solicitors Hegarty LLP.

They heard Persimmon Homes planning director Keith George explain the proposed Planning Gain Supplement (PGS) - a fixed levy on the enhanced land value after it gets planning permission.

He said the Government intended to introduce PGS in 2009, if it continues to be deemed workable and effective.

Mr George said the home-building industry was moving firmly against the implementation of PGS and there was qualified support for an extended role of the current arrangement of S106 agreements under which developers contribute to the additional demands new homes impose on public services.

Barrister Peter Goatley spoke on the change in planning emphasis for new housing arising from Planning Policy Statement 3 which came into force on Sunday. He said that there was much of interest within PPS3 and the emphasis was on "delivery", including improving affordability.

Senior partner John Martin, second from right, said: "Changes in planning law can often be very dull and difficult to understand, so we were extremely fortunate to obtain two excellent speakers who both gave such thought-provoking talks."

Mr Martin is pictured with, from left, Richard Hegarty, Keith George and Peter Goatley.